HC Deb 21 October 1998 vol 317 c1151W
14. Mr. Ian Bruce

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office if he will take steps to ensure that all Ministers reply to letters from hon. Members within a specific time scale. [54735]

Mr. Kilfoyle

The Government attach the greatest importance to the effective handling of correspondence. Challenging targets are set for replying to letters from hon. Members and performance against target is continuously monitored. Departments have recently been reminded of the importance of replying promptly to letters from hon. Members and the Cabinet Office will issue guidance later this month reminding Departments of the correct procedures to be followed when handling ministerial correspondence.